avatarAmanda Laughtland

Summary

A fourth-grade student recounts their journey as a young magician, using card tricks learned from a birthday book and regular decks, and feeling professional with casino cards from Reno.

Abstract

The narrative describes a child's enthusiasm for magic, particularly card tricks, which began with a birthday gift of a special card trick book and a uniquely shaped deck. The child's proficiency grew to the point where they could perform tricks with any deck, including those from school or a friend's home. The magician's costume from a Halloween past paled in comparison to the sense of authenticity when using cards from Reno casinos, brought by the child's grandmother. The piece is inspired by a writing prompt about the power of playing cards.

Opinions

  • The author values the tactile experience of card tricks, emphasizing the importance of feeling the edges of cards to identify the chosen one.
  • There is a sense of pride and professionalism associated with using casino cards, which elevates the child's magical experience.
  • The child's ability to perform tricks with any deck showcases adaptability and confidence in their skills.
  • The act of performing magic tricks, especially with a regular deck, is seen as a special and connective activity, capable of transcending the ordinary.

Is This Your Card?

A fourth-grade magician

Photo by Aditya Chinchure on Unsplash

I got a book of card tricks for my birthday — a deck with a narrow end. I could run my fingers along the edges and feel when a card (your card!) was out of place.

I could do my favorite trick with a regular deck, any deck at all, at school or from your junk drawer. After you shuffled, I’d silently note the “key card” at the bottom, so when you placed your chosen card on top and cut a few times, I’d find it — presto!

When my grandma visited Reno to play the slots with her friend Elma, she’d bring decks from the casinos. It felt professional to use those cards, like becoming the magician I’d dressed up as for Halloween.

Inspired by WriteHere.

Writehere
Family
Childhood
The Daily Cuppa
Prose Poem
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